Second Career Program Assessment and Application

The Second Career program is an initiative of the Ontario government to help workers who have been laid off to get back on their feet. These workers are provided with a grant, dedicated to their skills training. The aim of the program is to prepare laid-off workers for in-demand jobs. If you qualify for this grant, you can receive financial help for your books and supplies, payment towards tuition, transportation and living expenses if they are associated with your education.

Qualified students can get a grant of up to $28,000 from the Ministry of Training for Colleges and Universities (MTCU). The grant will take care of education-related expenses for up to two years.

These are the guidelines given by the MTCU for the Second Career program grant:

The program cannot run for more than two years.

The program should lead to a specified career path.

The program should allow students to pursue an additional year of academic upgrading in certain cases.

Check Your Eligibility

Workers who were laid off after 2004 can apply for the Second Career program grant. You can qualify for the program even if you have received Employment Insurance (EI).

You may qualify for the following if you have accepted EI:

Skills training for a period of six months to two years for National Occupation Classification (NOC) skill level B. Equivalent and in-demand occupations in Ontario will also be considered.

Academic upgrading for up to one year, if it is a prerequisite for skills training.

You may qualify for the following if you have not accepted EI:

Skills training for up to two years for National Occupation Classification (NOC) skill levels B and C. Equivalent and in-demand occupations in Ontario will also be considered.

Academic upgrading for up to one year, if it is a prerequisite for skills training.

Changes to the Second Career Program

The government of Ontario made a few changes to the Second Career program. All those who lost their jobs because of COVID-19 are eligible to get additional support up to $28,000 that will be targeted towards your training in the fields with optimal job prospects.

Qualifying Ontarians, under the enhanced Second Career Program, will get financial assistance to support the cost of their tuition, books, fees, childcare, transportation and other applicable expenses such as a basic living allowance up to a maximum of $410 per week.

You can start your education as soon as you have confirmation that you've been approved under the Second Career Program. We have listed the programs that are eligible for these 4 fast track streams.

Eligible Courses

Accounting Programs

Business Office Accounting Clerk Diploma

Computerized Accounting Diploma

Payroll Administrator Certificate

Business Programs

Administrative Assistant Diploma

Business Administration Diploma

Conference and Event Planner Diploma

Marketing Coordinator Diploma

Sales Professional Diploma

International Hospitality Management Diploma

Customer Service Information Clerk Diploma

Healthcare Programs

Medical Information Assistant Certificate

Medical Office Assistant Diploma

Medical Receptionist Diploma

Dental Administrative Assistant Diploma

Information Technology Programs

Computer Service Technician Diploma

Network Administrator Diploma

PC Support Specialist Diploma

Software and Web Developer Diploma

Design Programs

Web Designer Diploma

Graphic Designer Diploma

Language Programs

Pitman English Course

Here to Help

AOLCC Scarborough is here to help you with the Second Career program. We will assist you in creating a new career plan and submit the application for the grant. Call us today for a free no obligation assessment.

Still Confused?

Get in touch with a counsellor to discuss your case.